Klungkung (Semarapura) Tours

Klungkung is a small Balinese town of great historical, cultural, and artistic importance. It was the seat of rule for Bali's most powerful dynasty of rajas, Dewa Agung. During this time, the island experienced an illustrious period of rich cultural and artistic significance, and Klungkung was at the center of it all.

Klungkung Palace was built in the early 18th century, but largely destroyed by the Dutch at the beginning of the 20th century. The most fascinating remains of the palace include the Bale Kambang, also known as the Floating Pavilion, and the famous Kertha Gosa, or Hall of Justice. The latter was used as a court for the Klungkung kingdom, where disputes and cases were raised and settled. This open-sided pavilion is a superb example of traditional Klungkung architecture, and has a ceiling completely covered with intricate murals.

Elsewhere in Klungkung, there are a number of markets and shops to amble around, along with several museums and galleries, with a particular focus on the traditional Indonesian wayang artform.

Practical Info

Klungkung is situated around 25 kilometers from Ubud on the main route towards the eastern towns of Padang Bai, Candidasa, and beyond.

See the highlights of East Bali on this full-day tour from Ubud. Start with a visit to Kerta Gosa, aka the Hall of Justice, located in the Klungkung Regency. After a look at the exquisite ceiling murals, you'll continue on through the fishing village of Kusamba and follow a coastal route to the bat caves of Pura Goa Lawah. After lunch, marvel at the sacred water palace of Taman Tirta Gangga. You have the option to upgrade for a private tour with commentary by your own personal guide.

This private full-day tour takes you to East Bali attractions with commentary by your own personal guide. Visit the historical courthouse of Kerta Gosa in the Klungkung Regency and see free-roaming bats in a cave at Pura Goa Lawah. Then continue on to Pura Besakih, Bali’s holiest Hindu temple, perched on the slopes of Mt Agung.

Discover the wealth of unexpected cultural and archaeological attractions of East Bali's Karangasem region during this private guided 7-hour day trip with lunch. Explore the holiest Hindu site in Bali at the Mother Temple of Besakih, situated on the slopes of the island's tallest volcano, Mount Agung. You'll also visit two rural villages, Penglipuran and Klungkung, which will give you a taste for the island's beautiful tropical plant life, majestic mountain scenery and the unique culture. This private guided excursion also includes round-trip transport from your hotel and all entrance fees.

Lose yourself in Bali’s rich cultural tapestry on an enriching full-day tour of East Bali from Klungkung. After convenient hotel pickup, you’ll travel to Kerta Gosa and Goa Lawah Temple to discover the history behind the ancient buildings. Visit a traditional salt production factory to see primitive tools in use; immerse yourself in the indigenous culture of Tengana Village, one of Bali’s most unique communities; and absorb the botanical beauty of Tirta Gangga, a park replete with water features and exotic flowers. Receive personalized attention from your guide on this small-group tour, limited to five people.